While type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition that is often diagnosed in childhood, many people are shocked to learn that it can also develop in adulthood. This is known as “latent autoimmune diabetes in adults,” or LADA.
Unlike type 2 diabetes, which is often associated with lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. In LADA, this process occurs more slowly than in traditional type 1 diabetes, which can make diagnosis more difficult.
Another shocking fact about type 1 diabetes is that it is on the rise worldwide. According to the International Diabetes Federation, the number of people with type 1 diabetes is expected to increase by 40% by 2040. This is a significant concern, as type 1 diabetes can have serious and potentially life-threatening complications if left untreated or poorly managed.
It’s important to raise awareness about type 1 diabetes and the need for ongoing research to improve treatments and find a cure. With greater understanding and support, we can work towards a future in which people with type 1 diabetes can lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
